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Widow’s pride in Pc killed by getaway car
Peter Dominiczak21.04.09
THE widow of a policeman who died after being rammed by a burglary getaway car today told of her grief.
Pc Gary Toms, 37, died on Friday when his life-support machine was switched off six days after he was knocked down as he tried to prevent suspects smashing through a police blockade in Leyton.
The officer, who worked for Scotland Yard's firearms unit CO19, was crushed against his own vehicle as he stepped out to confront the alleged robbers, who police had trapped in a cul-de-sac.
His widow, Clair Toms, said her husband will never be forgotten.
She said: “Gary was a much-loved man who was greatly respected by family and friends. He lived a full life which held no regrets and we are extremely proud of all that he achieved in his lifetime. He will be deeply missed by us all, but never forgotten.”
Pc Toms was in a marked vehicle sent out to stop a silver Chrysler after reports of an aggravated burglary in Dagenham.
The suspects failed to stop and led officers on a chase through east London before pulling into the road where Pc Toms sustained his fatal injuries trying to prevent their escape.
Three people have now been charged in connection with the robbery on 11 April.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson was among those to visit Pc Toms in hospital before his death.
He said Pc Toms's death was “especially poignant” as it occurred 25 years to the day Pc Yvonne Fletcher died after she was shot outside the Libyan embassy.
Reader views (4)
We should be proud of the country we live in and the courage these officers face on a daily basis to keep us safe.
- Gary, London
How sad that this does not get as much prominence as the G20 riots. Whatever wrong doing did or did not happen that day Gary Toms represents the bravery and dedication that is typical of our police force.
- Reid,, Zurich, Switzerland
To all those knocking the police, this is the real Met. This officers showed the skills and commitment that the majority of office do everyday.
I can only pass my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues by say that I have a great pride in officers such as PC Toms
- Not Exactly A Looney Lefty!, The real world
Nice to see he received coverage in the media for his sacrifice, as with all these things it is the family who loses most.
Perhaps when people criticise the police, they should think of people like this..
- Mary, london
